Centipede (Chilopoda) Locomotion

The trunks of Chilopoda are comprised of between 15 and 191 segments, each bearing one pair of legs. The last segment has legs modified for sensory, grasping, and defensive functions. All other legs work in rhythmic consort for locomotion. The posterior propogation movement pattern has been described as a kinematic wave (Anderson and Schultz 1995). The efficiency of this type of movement makes the centipede one of the fastest moving insects on the planet. Several muscles are involved in the induction of the wave impulse. These include both axial and lateral flexor muscles. Lateral muscles are thought to be the power producers, allowing for lengthened stride and stroke. Alternate contraction/relaxation events occur per segment per step. One leg is stepping while the other is at rest. Axial undulation is minimized by muscles that work in opposition to the lateral flexors, keeping the body from bending in flight. Body bending impedes efficient forward motion. As the speed of the centipede increases the wave propensity increases, and fewer legs are in simultaneous contact with the ground. Only 3 or 4 legs may support the centipede at highest speeds. This video was taken at standard speed and includes both real time and reduced speed (by 50%) segments. It was produced by Bradley Greene under the direction of Dr. Timothy Menzel as a part of the Invertebrate Behavior Project at Piedmont College in Georgia. Work Cited Anderson and Schultz. 1995, The Journal of Experimental Biology 198: 1185-1195.